8 Fantastic Day Trips From Dublin, Ireland

It’s easy to plan day trips from Dublin, since Ireland is so compact. You can easily drive west, south, or even north to explore — and still make it back in time for dinner and a bit of fun at the pub! Dublin is sublime, but to get a good feel for Ireland, it’s critical to explore beyond the capital city.

The Cliffs of Moher in Ireland. — shutterupeire / Shutterstock

1. The Cliffs Of Moher

Just over 700 feet high at their peak and about 5 miles long, the Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions. The showstopping cliffs, stormy Atlantic Ocean, and surrounding lush, green countryside are the spitting image of the Ireland you’ve long dreamed of visiting.

Ireland’s notorious coastal weather can dampen your trip in more ways than one. Wear warm, waterproof clothing when visiting the Cliffs of Moher — and don’t forget sturdy shoes. The Cliffs of Moher visitors center is worth experiencing to properly appreciate the area’s ecological and cultural significance. Most day tours include free time to visit the center as well as the chance to walk along the cliff trails.

Using a combination of public buses and trains, a trip to the Cliffs of Moher can take nearly 5 hours. Driving there is a much better option — the trip takes about 3 hours. Many coach tours depart from Dublin and include other stops along the way to help break up the trip.

Lough Tay in the Wicklow Mountains. — RR Photo / Shutterstock

2. The Wicklow Mountains And Glendalough

Just a 45-minute drive from central Dublin, the gorgeous countryside of the Wicklow Mountains offers a taste of Ireland’s wild, unspoiled side. It’s one of the most popular guided coach tour options from Dublin, since it allows visitors to see a lot in a short amount of time (and given the lack of easy public transportation here, joining a tour is really the only alternative to driving yourself).

Along the way, you’ll see the film locations of Braveheart and P.S. I Love You plus wildflowers, lakes, bogs, and fields of heather. Once you’ve reached the Wicklow Mountains, you’ll enjoy dazzling views of Lough Tay, also known as Guinness Lake. Most tours also include a stop at Glendalough, home to the ruins of a monastery built in the sixth century by Saint Kevin. The site features a 10th-century round tower.

I was lucky enough to spot deer in the forest when I explored here — but I can’t guarantee that for everyone!

The Hill of Tara in the Boyne Valley. — MNStudio / Shutterstock

3. The Boyne Valley

If you’re enamoured with ancient Celtic history, the Boyne Valley is an irresistible excursion. It’s home to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Newgrange, a prehistoric passage tomb dating to 3,200 B.C. That’s older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids! While visiting, don’t fret about getting photos. It’s hard to capture the site in a way that does it justice. The visitors center sells beautiful postcards to commemorate your visit.

The Boyne Valley is also home to the Hill of Tara, where the ancient Irish High Kings were crowned at the Stone of Destiny. Legend has it that the stone will roar when the rightful king touches it — so don’t forget to give it a tap!

Day tours to the Boyne Valley often include some free time in the seaside village of Howth, a stop to see the high crosses at Monasterboice, a visit to Trim Castle and Slane Castle, or a stop at Bective Abbey. Read your tour itinerary carefully to be sure you’re getting the best value for your time and interests.

Newgrange is just a 1-hour drive from Dublin. If you’re renting a car, be sure it includes a GPS — or take along a friend who is skilled at navigating! There are more than a few narrow country lanes in this part of Ireland.

Howth Castle overlooking the sea. — Nataliia Pushkareva / Shutterstock

4. Howth

If your day trip to the Boyne Valley doesn’t include a stop at Howth, it’s easy to get there on your own. The pretty seaside village is just a 30-minute drive from Dublin’s city center, and it’s an inexpensive trip by bus, taxi, or train. This is the perfect option for anyone who’s on a tight schedule and can’t spare a full day to explore outside Dublin. You can enjoy the best of Howth in a few hours — I recommend taking a late afternoon trip there to enjoy the seashore at dusk before sitting down to a delicious dinner. Alternatively, on Saturday morning or Sunday morning, you could drop in to the community market, which is really close to the train station.

In Howth, you’ll find beautiful views, easy coastal hikes, and the 12th century Howth Castle, which is open during the summer months. If you have some extra time, you can catch a ferry to Ireland’s Eye, a small island that is home to the ruins of a sixth-century monastery.

Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland. — S-F / Shutterstock

5. Northern Ireland

There was a time when Dublin and Belfast felt much farther apart. Today, travel between Northern Ireland (which is part of the United Kingdom) and the Republic of Ireland is easier than ever before, and you can get to Belfast from Dublin by public bus, shuttle bus, train, or car (the drive is less than 2 hours long). There are good public transportation options for visiting Giant’s Causeway and Derry (also known as Londonderry) as well, but the wait times between connections add up quickly, making joining a tour the most practical option for seeing more than one site. Driving is a good option, too.

Belfast’s attractions include Belfast Castle, the Botanic Gardens, and the popular Titanic Belfast museum. A short drive away is Giant’s Causeway, an incredible geological formation which may or may not have been formed by the thunderous footsteps of giants. Derry/Londonderry is a beautiful walled city with a tragic past; guided city tours help to put its complex history into perspective. Derry/Londonderry is one of my all-time favorite travel destinations and one of the most underrated cities in Europe. It’s well worth the effort to go there!

Blarney Castle in Ireland. — PaddenPhotography / Shutterstock

6. Blarney Castle And Cork

Legend has it that if you lie on your back and bend back to kiss the stone of Blarney Castle, you’ll be graced with the gift of gab. I can’t say for sure that it worked — I’m prone to chattering already! — but I can say with certainty that Blarney Castle is a fantastic day trip from Dublin. Personally, I enjoyed exploring the castle grounds (and the delightful Witch’s Cave) more than my rather perfunctory rock-kissing experience, but it was still fun to be a part of the tradition.

Blarney Castle is just a short trip from Cork, Ireland’s third-largest city and a terrific foodie destination.

It only takes 3 hours and 30 minutes to drive from Dublin to Blarney Castle. Rent a car or join a group tour to make the most of your time.

Limerick in Ireland. — Patryk Kosmider / Shutterstock

7. Limerick And Adare

Limerick dates to A.D. 812 — possibly even earlier — and in the 16th and 17th centuries it was called the most beautiful city in Ireland due to its buildings of white marble. In later years, the city fell on hard times. Today, Limerick is back to its former glory and is notable for its thriving art and literary scenes. The Limerick City Gallery of Art, the Hunt Museum, and the Frank McCourt Museum are all worth visiting. The city’s Shannon Airport, the birthplace of Irish coffee, was home to some of the earliest transatlantic flights, and aviation fans will enjoy a visit to the Shannon Air Museum.

The nearby town of Adare has the distinction of being named the prettiest village in Ireland. Adare Manor, a posh hotel, is a fantastic place for enjoying an elegant afternoon tea or a round of golf you’ll always remember.

Limerick is a 3-hour drive from Dublin. It takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes to get there by bus and train.

Kilkenny in Ireland. — Madrugada Verde / Shutterstock

8. Kilkenny And Waterford

A 2-hour drive from Dublin, the town of Kilkenny is often described as “charming,” but a better word would be “bewitching.” It’s Ireland’s best-preserved medieval town, and there are tantalizing stories, legends, myths, and fables aplenty. Be sure to ask the locals about the witch who killed her four husbands! The town is easy to get to by public transportation for a day trip, but I have to say that it’s a delightful place to stay for a night or two to enjoy the local pub life — and the ghost tour!

The nearby small village of Thomastown is home to Jerpoint Abbey, a partially ruined Cistercian abbey from the 12th century that is famous for its stone carvings. If you have a car or you’re intrepid with rural buses (I sure was!), it’s well worth checking out.

Just down the road in Waterford is Waterford Crystal’s famous manufacturing facility. You can take a guided tour of the facility and enjoy the massive display of crystal in the company’s showroom.

Nice, France: The Best Things To See And Do

The prefecture of the Alpes-Maritimes department of France, Nice was founded by the Greeks and later became a popular destination for artists and the European elite during the 19th century.

With its favorable climate and scenic beauty — the city is located on the famous French Riviera — Nice is a luxurious destination perfect for travelers looking for a relaxing getaway featuring walks on the beach, tasty local food, and exceptional views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Beyond its natural beauty and reputation as an opulent vacation destination, Nice is well known for its museums and open-air markets. The city is home to the second-largest collection of museums in all of France.

Here are the best things to see and do during a vacation in Nice, France.

view of french riviera from castle hill — Ivan Mateev / Shutterstock

Promenade Des Anglais

One of France’s most well-known thoroughfares, the Promenade des Anglais extends 4.3 miles along the Mediterranean Sea, from the airport on the west end to the Quai des États-Unis on the east.

Nice became famous as a vacation destination when Queen Victoria began vacationing at the Excelsior Régina Palace. Visitors began walking along the shoreline that is now the Promenade des Anglais, and plans were drawn up for a formal walkway.

The promenade has continued to be a popular area and is used for many cultural events, including the Nice Carnival. The promenade is lined with restaurants, bars, and cafés and is frequented by people from all walks of life, including tourists, artists, skaters, wanderers, and street performers.

Musée Matisse

A municipal museum dedicated to the work of the French painter Henri Matisse, Musée Matisse contains one of the largest collections of the artist’s works. The collection includes works from Matisse’s early days as an artist, works from the end of his career, and everything in between.

Situated in a 17th-century villa in the posh neighborhood of Cimiez, Musée Matisse opened in 1963. The museum’s permanent collection includes 68 paintings and gouaches, 236 drawings, 218 prints, 95 photos, 57 sculptures, and 13 books illustrated by Matisse. There are also a variety of objects on display that were owned by Matisse, such as prints, tapestries, stained glass, and various documents.

Musée Matisse is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Monday and is closed on Tuesdays. Note that from November through April, the museum closes at 5 p.m.

Guided tours in English are available for 6 euros at 3:30 p.m. on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays.

Musée National Marc Chagall

Another well-known museum in Nice, Musée National Marc Chagall, is devoted to the work of the painter Marc Chagall, particularly to his works inspired by religion.

Marc Chagall was a Russian-French artist of Belarusian Jewish origin. His works include everything from paintings, book illustrations, and stained glass to stage sets, fine art prints, ceramics, and tapestries.

Chagall was highly involved in the museum’s life up until his death in 1985. He attended exhibit openings and had a say in the construction of the building.

From November through April, the museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Monday, and from May through October, the museum is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Monday. The museum is closed on Tuesdays. Admission costs 8 euros.

Saint Nicholas Russian Orthodox Cathedral

Saint Nicholas Russian Orthodox Cathedral is the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedral in Western Europe. It currently belongs to the jurisdiction of the Moscow Patriarchate.

The cathedral was ordered built by the Russian royal family to honor the young Tsesarevich Nicholas Alexandrovich, who had died in Nice in 1865, and to provide a spiritual home for the growing Russian community in Nice. By the mid-1800s, the Russians, like the English, had begun living on the French Riviera during the winter months. The Old Russian-style church, which was completed in 1912, is one of the most significant Orthodox buildings outside of the Russian Federation.

The cathedral is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and admission is free.

Castle Of Nice/Castle Hill

A formidable walled fortress constructed in the 11th century, the Castle of Nice, once overlooked the bay of Nice. Though it was thought to be impenetrable, the fortress was attacked many times throughout its colorful history, and it was finally conquered and dismantled by the French King Louis XIV in the 18th century. Many of the castle’s stones were later used to pave the Promenade des Anglais.

Today, the former site of the Castle of Nice is now a park, Castle Hill. It is the most famous public garden in the city. Castle Hill offers unparalleled panoramic views of the city and the French Riviera and is especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset.

Vieux Nice

Vieux Nice is the city’s old town, a picturesque area of cobblestone streets lined with pastel buildings and quaint boutique shops selling soaps, textiles, meats, and cheeses. The area is home to the Cours Saleya market, an open-air market with fantastic shopping opportunities.

Vieux Nice is also teeming with pubs, restaurants, and outdoor eateries — it’s an ideal place to sit back, relax, and people-watch during the warm spring and summer months.

restaurant on beach in nice — Manfred Steinbach / Shutterstock

Eating In Nice, France

It’s no secret that France has some of the most delectable cuisine on Earth, and there are several local dishes that you must try when visiting Nice.

Socca, also known as farinata, is a chickpea-based pancake or crêpe that originated in Genoa, Italy, and that later became popular in Nice. A common street food, socca can be easily obtained from vendors in sidewalk stalls at Nice’s open-air markets.

Another local favorite, salade Niçoise (“salad from Nice”), is traditionally made from tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, Niçoise olives, anchovies, and olive oil. This refreshing salad is best eaten during the summer months and is great for lunch or dinner. For the best salade Niçoise in Nice, check out Chez Pipo and Nomad Bar.

If you’ve spent the day sightseeing in town or swimming in the Mediterranean and need to fill up for lunch, try pan bagnat. A filling sandwich that can be found pretty much anywhere in Nice (food stalls, bakeries, cafés, etc.), pan bagnat is made with wheat bread, anchovies or tuna, hard-boiled eggs, raw vegetables, and a drizzle of olive oil. It’s essentially a salade Niçoise sandwich! For the most authentic pan bagnat, head to La Gratta Keka or Chez Tintin.

cours saleya market in nice — Rostislav Glinsky / Shutterstock

Shopping In Nice, France

Some of Nice’s most intriguing features are its innumerable open-air markets, from farmers markets to flea markets and outdoor antique shops. You’re guaranteed to come across some unique finds ideal for bringing back home to friends and family!

The Cours Saleya market is situated in the heart of Vieux Nice and is arguably the city’s most popular open-air market. Open every morning from Tuesday through Sunday, Cours Saleya offers the freshest produce, cheese, olives, herbs, and flowers. This charming market has a rich history and a welcoming atmosphere.

On Mondays, the Cours Saleya market transforms into an antique market, or a brocante. If you want to avoid returning home with boring and typical souvenirs from Nice, do your shopping at Cours Saleya on a Monday. This market invites visitors to get lost in its array of antiques, collectibles, and fascinating knickknacks.

Other popular open-air markets in Nice include Palais de Justice and Place Garibaldi.

Photo Credit: Roman Borodaev / Shutterstock

Photo Credit: Rostislav Glinsky / Shutterstock

How To Visit Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon has a problem we can all relate to — rowdy neighbors! The canyon is surrounded by Grand Canyon National Park, Zion National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. There is always a lot of noise heading in its direction, but it’s not always getting a piece of the action. Too many travelers are passing it by. But that’s about to change, since more and more people are discovering the spectacular natural beauty of this slot canyon.

The first thing to know about Antelope Canyon is that it’s actually TWO canyons! Talk about a travel bonus! Upper Antelope Canyon and Lower Antelope Canyon both have their pros and cons. And, yes, you CAN visit both in a day, depending on which tour provider you choose.

location of antelope canyon — Google Maps

Where Is Antelope Canyon?

Antelope Canyon is located on Navajo land about 4 hours and 30 minutes east of Las Vegas; just over 2 hours north of Flagstaff, Arizona; and just south of the Utah-Arizona border. The nearest airport and bus station is in Page, Arizona.

antelope canyon sunbeam — mj-tim photography / Shutterstock

The Best Time Of Year To Visit Antelope Canyon

If your heart is set on seeing the famous sunbeams of Upper Antelope Canyon, you’ll have to visit between late March and early October. Otherwise, the light won’t be strong enough, and the sun won’t be in the right position for the desired effect. The light is usually strongest in the summer (June, July, and August), but the crowds are densest then, too. A shoulder-season visit means cooler conditions and fewer crowds; however, the rays of sunshine striking the canyon walls may be less intense.

Don’t discount the possibility of visiting Antelope Canyon in winter. In fact, many people prefer it. Crowds are thinner, tours are often a little less expensive, the climate is much cooler and hiker-friendly, and the gentler light will create its own beauty on the canyon walls.

What To Know About Upper Antelope Canyon

It’s User-Friendly

Upper Antelope Canyon is considered, in many ways, the more visitor-friendly of the two canyons. You don’t have to climb to get into or out of the canyon, and the ground is flat. You just enjoy a gentle stroll — perhaps the most beautiful walk in the world!

You Can Enjoy Nature’s Best Special Effects

The highly photogenic beams of sunshine that radiate from the top of the canyon down to the floor are most prevalent here. Chances are, if you’ve seen a gorgeous photograph of Antelope Canyon, it’s of the sunbeams in the Upper Canyon. To enjoy them, make sure you visit between late March and early October and that you’re there in the middle of the day. The sun has to be high in the sky to create this natural visual effect.

It Might Be Crowded

While nothing can match the crowds at the Grand Canyon, the easy walk and the amazing light make Upper Antelope Canyon a popular attraction. At peak times, it can have 10 times the visitors that Lower Antelope Canyon does. Imagine 100 people in a canyon that’s just 300 feet long!

You can avoid the crowds by visiting in April or May instead of July. However, you run the risk of missing the sunbeams if it’s a cloudy spring day. Choosing a tour provider who specializes in small groups can help.

What To Know About Lower Antelope Canyon

It’s A Bit More Challenging

Lower Antelope Canyon is considered more challenging to visit. You have to climb into and out of the canyon via sturdy but steep stairs and ladders. Then the real fun begins! The path through the Lower Canyon is longer, narrower, and more uneven than the path through Upper Antelope Canyon. The sunbeam phenomenon is more difficult to capture here because of the narrowness of the Lower Canyon.

The Crowds Are Better Managed

In addition to being less visited, Lower Antelope Canyon is also better when it comes to crowd control. You don’t exit the same way you came in, so there are no groups turning around and doubling back into your path.

Pro Photographers Adore It

These limitations in no way mean that Lower Antelope Canyon is inferior. It’s particularly prized by photographers, who are in love with the shifting shadows, the mutating colors, and the spectacular light playing on the canyon walls. In fact, there are photographers-only tours of the Lower Canyon.

It’s Less Expensive

Good ol’ supply and demand. Tours to Lower Antelope Canyon are usually about $10 less expensive than tours to Upper Antelope Canyon. If you’re an average Joe traveling on a budget, Lower Antelope Canyon is the way to go. However, the professional photography tours at Lower Antelope are the priciest of all and top out at about $50 (plus transportation).

vehicle going to antelope canyon — aounphoto / Shutterstock

How To Get To Antelope Canyon

Whether you want to visit Upper Antelope Canyon, Lower Antelope Canyon, or both (yes, please!), note that you won’t be doing it alone. You must visit the canyon with a tour guide. Don’t even think of trying to sneak in for a bit of independent exploration. The road is gated by the Navajo Nation, and they won’t let any daredevils sneak in. The rules are enforced to protect the land’s spiritual and environmental significance and to keep all visitors safe.

It’s important to take more than the usual precautions when you’re exploring isolated locations in nature. Antelope Canyon is prone to flash flooding, and there have been fatalities in the past. A new system of safety procedures, equipment, and warnings was implemented about 10 years ago, but exploring the canyon still carries a risk. For this reason, it’s important to choose a tour provider with a long and reliable record of bringing groups to Antelope Canyon — and to always heed their safety instructions.

Looking up different companies on TripAdvisor is a valuable way to narrow down your list of providers. Look for reviews that mention safety briefings, organization, the friendliness of the staff, the size of the group, and the quality of the amenities. Did the tour include drinks, snacks, or lunch? If so, how was it? Do past participants feel they got a good bang for their buck? As always, be a discerning reader to separate the unreasonable complaints (it isn’t the tour company’s fault that you can’t bring backpacks into the canyon) from the valid ones (such as a complaint about a crass tour guide constantly dropping hints about tips).

The majority of tour providers are based in the nearby town of Page; however, there are a number of outfitters based in Las Vegas who offer whirlwind day tours of Antelope Canyon (or even Antelope Canyon and the Grand Canyon!). Personally, I think Page and the surrounding areas are beautiful and well worth a leisurely visit. However, if you’re based in Las Vegas and can only spare a day outside of the city, Antelope Canyon is a worthy day-trip destination.

Day-trippers from Vegas should expect to spend a lot of time in the tour vehicle (nearly 10 hours, when all is said and done!). A small-group tour that offers onboard phone charging, Wi-Fi, snacks, and drinks will go a long way toward enhancing your comfort. Your trip will likely also include short visits to Horseshoe Bend and Lake Powell, but Antelope Canyon will be the star of the show.

Is Antelope Canyon Okay For Kids?

There’s nothing like seeing the wonders of nature through a child’s eyes! For school-age kids who are steady on their feet and able to follow instructions, Antelope Canyon is a great place to explore. However, if you’re traveling with babies, toddlers, or small children, there are some important considerations to be mindful of.

First, note that not all tours welcome children, and this is primarily because of transportation concerns. Those that do welcome children require you to notify them in advance so that you can make arrangements for car seats and booster seats (which, in general, you’ll have to supply). Second, know that the drive to Antelope Canyon is a rough and bumpy one. Some kids might love it. Others, not so much.

There are very limited facilities around Antelope Canyon. Any hope you might have for a washroom with a changing table will soon be dashed! You’ll have to leave diaper bags in the tour vehicle when you’re out exploring. If you’re reading between the lines here, you’ll realize that you’ll have to change the diaper before the tour and hope for the best until the tour concludes!

Strollers and backpack carriers are not permitted in Upper Antelope Canyon. Backpack carriers are permitted in Lower Antelope Canyon, but you are operating at your own risk. This helpful blog post details important information parents and/or grandparents should know before planning a trip.

Photo Credit: Brian Kinney / Shutterstock

Photo Credit: paulista / Shutterstock

7 Key Things To Know About Branson Shows

There are a variety of things to do in and around Branson, Missouri, but the Ozark city is best known for its shows. With over 100 live shows running each year, it’s easy to understand why millions of tourists visit Branson specifically for the entertainment. If you are heading to Branson, here are the key things to know about its live shows.

Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede. — Dolly Parton’s Stampede

1. Branson Is The Live Entertainment Capital Of The World

Live shows have been the mainstay of entertainment in the Branson entertainment scene for decades. You’ll find many kinds of acts and music from every era performed by both rising and well-known musicians. You’ll hear pop, country, rock ’n’ roll, gospel, big band, swing, bluegrass, jazz, classical, and more.

Tribute shows are popular. Talented performers honor legends of the music industry by recreating their music in a way that makes you feel as if you are seeing and hearing the original. The Legends in Concert shows at Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater feature a different tribute act every three to four weeks with elaborate sets, special effects, and state-of-the-art lighting, laser, and sound systems.Of course, there is more than music to Branson shows. Comedians are also a Branson staple, either as headliners in their own shows or as acts in variety shows. Variety shows that combine singing and dancing with humor and storytelling thrive in Branson. Other shows will treat you to performances by acrobats, Broadway-style performers, and illusionists.

The dinner show at Dolly Parton’s Stampede features 32 horses and a buffalo stampede in a 35,000 square-foot arena. Various venues stage special Christmas shows in the month of December.

Several internationally famous performers make Branson their home, as do the ensemble production groups behind long-running classic shows. Touring acts add to the extensive choice of entertainment options. Branson is also a major student performance destination with student groups performing onstage at many shows.

2. Shows Are Family Friendly

Everyone in the family can enjoy Branson shows. Comedy is clean. In keeping with the family-friendly theme, many performance venues do not serve alcohol.

In many shows, the family focus is also found on stage, where families provide the entertainment. The Baldknobbers and the Presleys feature multigenerational families performing together. The five Hughes brothers have been performing together for thirty years. Today, the brothers, their wives, and more than 35 children and grandchildren are in the show.

The five brothers and one sister in the Haygood family started performing at Silver Dollar City when the family moved to Branson in 1993. In 2001, they opened their show on the Branson Strip. SIX is a contemporary vocal band starring six brothers who made their television debut in 1978 on the Osmond Brothers Special. Three generations of Dutton musicians, singers, and dancers perform in Branson from April to December. From early December to early April, they take their show to Mesa, Arizona.

Five gospel singers onstage in Branson. — Branson Convention and Visitors Bureau / Flickr

3. Many Venues Offer Discounts To Veterans and Military Personnel

In November, Branson hosts the largest Veterans Homecoming celebration in the United States. Other commemorative events occur throughout the year. Branson businesses are known to salute veterans and active duty personnel year round.

That commitment to honoring veterans continues on the stage. Many shows recognize veterans, active duty military, and their families through special patriotic tributes, with audiences responding with rousing ovations. Shows that don’t include a musical tributes typically make a special announcement at some point, often around the start or end of intermission.

4. Dozens Of Shows Include Gospel Numbers

Many Branson Shows celebrate both the flag and the Christian faith. Several, including Smoke on the Mountain, New South Gospel, and Ozarks Gospel center around gospel music and faith-based tunes. Many other shows, even those that are not overtly religious in nature or theme, will feature at least one gospel or faith-based number.

The 2,000-seat Sight and Sound theater has a 300-foot stage that surrounds the audience on three sides and uses state-of-the-art technology with a million watts of lights and sixty-thousand watts of sound to bring Bible stories to life.

5. Branson’s Original Show On The Strip Is Still Playing

Presleys’ Country Jubilee was the first show on what is now the Branson Strip. It got started back in 1967 and is still playing today, but it’s not the longest-running show in Branson. That honor goes to Baldknobbers, which dates to 1959. Another perennial favorite is the telling of Harold Bell Wright’s 1907 story The Shepherd of the Hills. The cast includes more than 90 actors, often local artists, plus real horses, donkeys, mules, and sheep. The performance staged in an outdoor amphitheater, includes gunfights and the burning of a cabin. Audience members are invited to join everyone on stage to square dance during intermission.

World-class violinist Shoji Tabuchi opened his own theater in 1990. The Shoji Tabuchi Show features Tabuchi accompanied in a variety show by his wife and daughter, a hand-picked band, and an amazing dance group. Plus, the theater is known for its million-dollar bathrooms, which are a tourist attraction in and of themselves. Many other shows, including most of the shows featuring generations of family performers, have long histories in Branson. Acts are updated each year to keep it fresh.

6. You Can Spend Your Morning Watching A Live Show

Live shows are available most times of the day, including morning, afternoon, and evening. Venues range from intimate 50-seat theaters to 3,000-seat auditoriums. You can even see a show on a riverboat. Aboard the Showboat Branson Belle as it cruises on Table Rock Lake, you can enjoy a three-course meal followed by a variety show of singing, dancing, and comedy.

The main show season in Branson runs from March to December, although a few shows still run in January and February. In addition to long-running hallmark shows, each year brings new shows and new touring performers to town. See Explore Branson for a list of shows and their schedules. The best place to buy tickets for a Branson show is on the theater’s website or by calling their box office.

A tour guide at Marvel Cave map in Branson. — Orin Zebest / Flickr

7. It All Started With A Cave

Music and live shows were not what first attracted tourists to the Branson area. In the 1860s, geologists discovered Marvel Cave, formerly called Marble Cave because its limestone walls were once thought to be marble. Canadian mining expert William Henry Lynch purchased the cave and opened it for public tours in 1894. In 1950, Hugo and Mary Herschend assumed responsibility for the cave. In 1960, they opened Silver Dollar City, an 1880s-themed amusement park, atop the cave. By 1963, Silver Dollar City was Missouri’s top tourist attraction. Silver Dollar City is still run by the Herschend family. The theme park features rides and performers demonstrating traditional Ozark crafts. It also hosts musical and comedy shows, runs a summer concert series, and stages entertainment festivals and events throughout the year.

In 1898, minister Harold Bell Wright traveled from his home in Kansas to the Ozarks for health reasons and stayed at the homestead of John and Anna Ross. The Rosses became characters in Wright’s 1907 book The Shepherd of the Hills. The book sold millions of copies in several languages. A 1941 movie version starred John Wayne. The success of the book brought more visitors to Branson.

The tradition of live music shows in Branson started later, in 1959, when the Mabe brothers began performing twice a week in a converted roller skating rink. They named themselves the Baldknobbers after a vigilante group that played a prominent part in The Shepherd of the Hills.

In 1967, the Presley family built the first musical theater on Highway 76. Over the years, theaters were built to the east and the west of them. The Baldknobbers opened a theater on Highway 76 in 1969. Today, the over-three-mile section of Highway 76 known at the Branson Strip contains many theater venues as well as dozens of other attractions from novelty museums to theme park rides. It is also home to the 150-foot-tall Branson Ferris Wheel.

Roy Clark was the first big name in country music to have a theater–the Roy Clark Celebrity Theater, opened in 1983–linked to his name in Branson. It is now the Hughes Family Theater.

By 1991, Branson had 22 theaters and was receiving national attention. Today there are more than double that and shows for every type of tourist to enjoy.

Interested in learning more about Branson? Check out The Best Branson Shows To See In 2019, or 12 Fun Things You Never Knew About Branson, MO.

A Weekend Getaway In Milwaukee, Wisconsin

It’s true — the beer and bratwurst are worth the trek. But you’ll find so much more in Milwaukee, Wisconsin: beautiful historic neighborhoods, a lively lakefront, and a muscular manufacturing heritage.

The Best Time To Go To Milwaukee

Once the winter chill has lifted, Milwaukee is at its best. The city’s lakefront is spectacular year-round but offers endless opportunities for walking in the spring, summer, and fall. If you’re arriving via Amtrak and going carless for a downtown weekend, plan to visit during the warmer months. While hardy Wisconsinites don’t shy away from driving in the winter, unpredictable prairie and lake winds sweep snow across the highways, complicating travel.

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What To Do In Milwaukee

Orient yourself by remembering that Lake Michigan is always to the east. The downtown area is pleasantly walkable, with a cluster of museums anchoring the lakefront parks. The Milwaukee River bends through the city’s downtown and is partially walkable via a riverwalk that is occasionally interrupted by buildings and unfinished stretches. Pere Marquette Park, on the west side of the river at the intersection of West State Street and North Old World Third Street, is a good starting point.

On the east side of downtown, Cathedral Square Park is a popular venue for summer concerts. The park is surrounded by restaurants and breweries.

Immediately south of the downtown area are two historic neighborhoods — the Third Ward and Walker’s Point — each with a nucleus of attractions.

Thirty minutes north of downtown is Cedarburg, a village with an adorable downtown and pioneer-era buildings. If you are driving, plan to head to Cedarburg, which rolls out the wooden sidewalk for visitors in search of the cute and quaint.

Beer, Brats, And, Cheese

What’s Milwaukee without a brewery tour? Fortunately, downtown abounds with craft breweries and old-fashioned dives. If you’re planning a car-free weekend, you can imbibe to your limit and recover at a downtown hotel.

Guided brewery tours are the best way to sample an array of beers and learn about their production and heritage. Fun Beer Tours offers themed tours of downtown and neighborhood breweries for about $30 per person. MobCraft Beer is the starting point for its brewery tours.

You can also load up on beer and brats in the festive shops and restaurants of Old World Third Street. Located on the western bank of the river, the street is a walking tour all by itself, and you can offset the alcohol with sausages from Usinger’s Famous Sausage. You’ll know you’ve arrived by the storybook elves decorating the storefront. Insider tip: Ask about “end pieces,” which are unlovely bits that are just as tasty at half the price.

The Milwaukee Art Museum

The small permanent collection is eclipsed by the spectacular addition designed by Santiago Calatrava, which carves air into space with its soaring curved walls. The Milwaukee Art Museum regularly hosts top-notch traveling exhibits. Its airy café is home to some of the best seats in town.

Discovery World Museum

While hands-on museums are usually the purview of youngsters, this science and technology museum tackles environmental issues, too, linking current news and the scientific method.

Other Great Attractions In Milwaukee

The Harley-Davidson Museum

Whether you thought you were wild for hogs or not, you’ll be a convert by the time you’ve been through the extensive collection of motorcycles and motorcycle memorabilia at the Harley-Davidson Museum. (Get it? Harley-Davidson motorcycles are sometimes called “hogs.”) Plenty of hands-on exhibits let you try on cycles for size and effect. The gift shop is worth the stop all by itself.

The Pabst Mansion

Yes, the rich are different, as this lushly decorated monument to the lifestyle of the Victorian 1 percent amply demonstrates. Marvel at the intricate woodwork, textiles, and finishes of this spectacular mansion, which was once the home of the city’s most famous beer baron.

Milwaukee Walking Tours

The nonprofit Historic Milwaukee offers walking tours of various parts of the city. If you want to tour Milwaukee without paying a fee, you can take a self-guided tour using the nonprofit’s printable walking guides to the city’s architecturally distinct neighborhoods.

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Where To Eat In Milwaukee

Bartoletta’s Lake Park Bistro

In the very northeast corner of the city — a 10-minute drive from downtown — you’ll find this elegant restaurant perched on a bluff overlooking Lake Michigan. Fish, duck, and lamb are highlights of the classic French menu.

Milwaukee Waterfront Deli

Milwaukee is at its best when the sun glints off the Milwaukee River and a light breeze blows across Lake Michigan. If you’re lucky enough to be in town on such a day, grab an Asian chicken roll from the Milwaukee Waterfront Deli and find a bench along the riverwalk.

Colectivo Coffee

Start or end a long walk along the glorious Lake Michigan waterfront at this café, which offers light breakfast and roasted coffee in a Victorian pumping station.

Mader’s

Can you claim you’ve been to Milwaukee if you haven’t had sauerbraten, schnitzel, or anything wurst? Of course not. Mader’s is every German stereotype on steroids: The restaurant is decorated with steins and dark woodwork and staffed by dirndl-wearing waitresses.

Milwaukee Public Market

Insanely popular since it opened about 10 years ago, the Milwaukee Public Market is an upscale food court that offers a smorgasbord of Wisconsin’s best, from cheese to European baked goods just like great-grandma used to make. This is the place to find Brew City-themed souvenirs, though hand-blended seasonings from The Spice House or chocolates from Kehr’s Candies make equally delightful mementos.

Café Benelux

With its huge, shaded patio, Café Benelux is the perfect place to start or end your stroll around the Third Ward. View the city skyline from the café’s roof deck or take in the street scene from the sidewalk patio. One highlight of the modern German restaurant’s menu is a local sausage trio garnished with Wisconsin cherry chutney. The café serves brunch daily, and the menu is one of the most varied in the city. Be sure to try the blueberry waffles!

Where To Stay In Milwaukee

Pfister Hotel

Live the burgher life in this historic hotel. Even if you’re not a guest, you should walk through the opulent lobby to see the building’s barrel-vaulted ceiling. The afternoon tea (reservations required) offers a luxurious break with fancy food and cushy surroundings. The Pfister tends to be pricey, so comb through its weekend getaway packages for deals that include tickets to attractions like the Milwaukee Art Museum.

Hilton Garden Inn

Housed behind a historic façade, this reasonably priced chain hotel is located in the middle of the downtown action.

Iron Horse Hotel

As macho as a hotel gets, this wood-and-leather behemoth is located just south of downtown and a short walk from the Harley-Davidson Museum. As you might suspect, it regularly hosts motorcycle enthusiasts.

Washington House Inn

Four-poster beds — check. Patchwork quilts — check. Fancy bathrooms — check. Warm muffins in a cozy breakfast room — check. If it’s the quintessential bed and breakfast you’re after, you’ll find it at the Washington House Inn in Cedarburg. The inn serves as an excellent home base for exploring Cedarburg and the northern suburbs.

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Why Oxford Is Well Worth Visiting On Your Next Trip To England

Looking to take a day trip or two during your upcoming London vacation? Consider Oxford.

You can easily escape the hustle and bustle of London here in the charming “City of Dreaming Spires.” With a population of just 155,000, Oxford has been a center of learning and discovery since 1096. It’s easily accessible via coach or train, and most of its main sights are in the town’s center. Here, you can retrace the steps of scholars, grab a pint at the pub where C.S. Lewis first dreamt up Narnia, and marvel at some of the most amazing architecture Europe has to offer.

Here are some of the top reasons why you should visit Oxford:

bridge of sighs at oxford — Thomas Barrat / Shutterstock

The Campus Is Incredible

The University of Oxford is one of most prestigious and picturesque universities in the entire world. Nearly 24,000 students call this storied campus home. Individual colleges are walled off, and each one has its own green, dormitory, and dining hall; most look like they came straight from a Harry Potter movie set. Some colleges are available to tour, but you’ll usually need to book your tour in advance. Check out the university’s listings for more information. If you can schedule a tour, do it!

As you stroll down the cobblestone streets, you’ll marvel at the sight of the venerable old academic buildings. The Bodleian Library is one of the oldest libraries in Europe and contains 12 million items. Nearby, the Radcliffe Camera serves as a reading room for faculty and students. Check out the Sheldonian Theatre’s Emperor Heads, which stand guard outside the venue that is still used for concerts and productions. And, of course, there’s the Bridge of Sighs, a corridor joining two parts of Hertford College over New College Lane. The bridge was allegedly named for the sounds students made on their way to exams.

st mary the virgin church oxford — Alexey Fedorenko / Shutterstock

You Can’t Escape The History

You can’t help but be impressed by the incredible amount of history here. Take a tour of St. Mary the Virgin Church to see the center from which the campus grew. A church has been located on the site since Anglo-Saxon times, and the oldest part of the current building is the tower, which dates to 1280. For an amazing view of the city, pay £4 and climb to the top. The church is open to visitors Monday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

A dark chapter in Oxford’s history is memorialized with a single Gothic spire where Broad Street meets St. Giles’ Street. This is the spot where three Reformation bishops were killed in the mid-1500s for their Protestant beliefs. It’s a reminder of the religious struggle that gripped much of England for centuries.

A happier and more modern historical marker can be spotted just outside the campus corridor at the Iffley Road track. That’s where, on May 6, 1954, Sir Roger Bannister ran the first-ever sub-4-minute mile.

the eagle and child pub oxford — Alicia Christoffel / Shutterstock

The Pubs Are Terrific

Like the rest of the United Kingdom, Oxford has its fair share of pubs. Many are within walking distance of or even on campus. In any of them, you can grab a pint or two along with a quick bite to eat. In addition to traditional fish and chips, many of the pubs in Oxford serve terrific international food. Check out The Old Tom, known for its Thai cuisine.

If you are at all a literature lover, you will want to belly up to The Eagle and Child (also referred to as “The Bird and the Baby”). Located on St. Giles’ Street, this cozy spot is where an informal literary group, the Inklings, met in the 1930s and 1940s. Among them were C. S. Lewis, creator of the Narnia series, and J. R. R. Tolkien, who authored the Lord of the Rings books.

punting on the river cherwell in oxford — SIHASAKPRACHUM / Shutterstock

Outdoor Activities Abound

Oxford is situated on the lovely River Cherwell. Depending on the time of year you visit, consider a punting adventure. You’ll see these long, flat-bottomed boats on the river during the early spring through the late fall. The boats resemble gondolas but are propelled with poles instead of oars. There are a number of places where you can rent a punt and try your hand at steering it through the shallow water. Prices start at £16 per hour.

The university’s colleges are linked by a series of lush English gardens and meadows. Take your time as you stroll through. And Oxford Park, located on the banks of River Cherwell, is the perfect spot for an on-campus picnic. Follow either the Oak Walk or the Thorn Walk for the perfect promenade.

ashmolean museum oxford — John Selway / Shutterstock

You Can Explore World-Class Museums

For a not-to-be-missed collection that spans centuries, spend an afternoon at the Ashmolean Museum. It first opened in 1677 to house a “collection of curiosities” donated to the university. Pieces from that collection can still be viewed today, along with a well-curated, varied collection of art and artifacts from all over the world. Antiquities and modern art mix beautifully here. The Ashmolean is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free.

Modern Art Oxford, with its interesting mix of well-rotated modern exhibits, is also worth a visit. Located in an old brewery building in the center of town, this little gem is also free of charge, but it is closed on Mondays.

The Shopping Can’t Be Beat

You won’t want to miss the Oxford Covered Market. It’s been around since the 1770s, is jam-packed with all sorts of handmade items — from soaps and shoes to candles and cakes — and is open seven days a week.

There are also many charming shops tucked away along Oxford’s old streets. One of my favorites is Kina Ceramics Studio. This basement space is full of beautiful handcrafted mugs, cups, and vases. Be sure to check out the intimidating Game of Thrones-style mug!

randolph hotel oxford — John Selway / Shutterstock

There Are A Variety Of Accommodations

Oxford is home to a variety of places to stay, from independent bed and breakfasts that serve up traditional English fry ups to luxe options like the Randolph Hotel. For a comfortable, basic room with a perfect location on Broad Street, check out The Buttery. Keep in mind, however, that there’s no lift and that the best rooms are on the third and fourth floors.

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